A replica Speedmaster 1957 3rd generation is the third build of a factory copy based on the Omega Speedmaster 1957 Re-edition, the watch Omega released in 1997 as a tribute to its original 1957 chronograph. The "3rd generation" tag is replica market language rather than an official Omega term, and it normally means the maker corrected faults found in the first two batches, mainly in the case profile, dial print, and bezel details.
What the 1957 Reference Is
Omega launched the Speedmaster in 1957 as the CK2915, a steel chronograph that moved the tachymeter scale onto the bezel instead of leaving it on the dial. For the model's 40th anniversary, Omega returned to that shape with a re-edition that kept the broad arrow hands, the straight lugs, and the base 1000 tachymeter layout. Most replica factories work from that anniversary re-edition, and sometimes from later anniversary sets that reused the same 1957 styling.
Two points matter before you compare copies:
- The genuine re-edition has its own reference number, so a seller who cannot name the reference a copy follows is guessing.
- "Third generation" describes a factory batch, not a model year, so a 3rd generation copy from one maker can differ from a 3rd generation copy from another.
What Usually Changes Between Generations
- Case profile: earlier copies were often too thick or had lugs that curved the wrong way, while later versions thin the mid case and reshape the lugs.
- Dial and hands: thicker print, better lume color, and hands cut closer to the original length.
- Bezel: the tachymeter scale, its font, and the small markers near the top are usually cleaned up.
- Crystal: many 3rd generation builds use a domed crystal that mimics the look of the original acrylic without the scratches.
- Movement and bracelet: better finishing, tighter end link fit, and markings closer to the original layout.
Movement Options on a 3rd Generation Copy
Most copies run a manual wind chronograph movement built around the Seagull ST19 family, which keeps the case slim and the pusher feel close to a vintage chronograph. Higher priced builds may use a decorated automatic chronograph, but an automatic movement usually adds thickness to a watch that should sit flat on the wrist. No replica of this model carries the genuine Omega calibre, so treat any claim of an original movement as a warning sign.
Details Worth Checking
- Measure the case: a Speedmaster should read close to 42 mm across and about 20 mm between the lugs.
- Look at the subdial spacing: uneven gaps between the three registers is the fastest giveaway in a photo.
- Check the tachymeter scale against a photo of the reference the seller names.
- Ask for photos of the caseback and the bracelet clasp, not just the dial.
- Confirm the crystal type and whether the chronograph resets cleanly to zero.
Buying Notes
Prices vary widely by factory, movement, and seller, and the same batch can be listed under three different names. A seller who shows real photos of the exact watch, states the movement, and accepts returns is a safer source than one who only posts factory renders. If a listing claims genuine Omega parts, original packaging, or a brand certificate, walk away.
In short, a 3rd generation replica Speedmaster 1957 is worth considering when the case shape, dial print, and bezel scale line up with the reference it copies. Judge the individual build, not the generation number on the listing.